Humbert avoids Nishikori's trap in his opening match

Ugo Humbert, the French No. 1, was solid enough in his second round at the Indian Wells Masters 1000 to defeat Kei Nishikori (6-4, 6-3).

For his debut in the Californian tournament, the Frenchman did not have an easy draw, having to face Kei Nishikori, who had defeated Jaume Munar in three sets on Wednesday.

Humbert started the match strong, leading 4-1, but eventually saw his opponent come back in the set, leveling at 4-4. It was finally at the best moment, at 5-4 in his favor, that he managed to break a second time to win the set.

After an exchange of breaks in the second set, the Frenchman ultimately had the final say to calmly conclude the match.

Now qualified for the third round, he will face the winner of the match between Holger Rune and Corentin Moutet.